Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is launching a bid for Wigan Athletic winger Charles N'Zogbia.
The Sun says Bruce has upped his bid for N'Zogbia to £9million. He had an £8m offer for the French winger rejected earlier this month.
Latics chief Roberto Martinez is reluctant to sell his biggest asset with his team involved in a relegation dogfight.
It is understood Wigan want at least £10m.